Overview of Status of Analysis, Design, Fabrication, Tests, etc.
Reached a consensus that we would waste too much time making a testbed replicating exact desert conditions as close as possible
New bag material (nylon) along with layering, alternative liquids to water, Wire Mesh are the most probable designs
Will need to fabricate with the use of a sewing machine
Accomplishments from Previous Week
Everybody did an individual component analysis
One covered new possible bag design, use of wires in bag to replace water, alternative liquids to water, clay alternatives, different bag material and layering
Goals for Next Week (list names after each item). Use specific and measurable objectives.
Everyone: do a little research regarding a new bag material since this is the direction that we feel like is the most appropriate to take at this time.
Kevin: Read all directions and be familiarized with steps of ordering process.
Albert/Jordan: Get website updated especially the Gantt Chart
Albert: Document closely any small or big comments or suggestions made by instructor or lead sponsor during meetings
Dylan: Contact with lead sponsor and set up meeting for further instructions and questions in regards to the bag material and possible innovative bag designs
Christian: Finalize candidates for different material layers for bag (especially the exposed borders of the bag to solar loading
Sponsor Comments from Last Meeting and Actions Taken to Address these Comments
The bag and liquid-clay compound mix need to be tribo-electric and enable low noise performance between the sensors and the ground
Focus on finding a new bag material that will greatly reduce solar loading and water loss inside the bag
Make the Bag as cost effective as possible
Did individual component analysis as mentioned earlier above to address these comments
Instructor Comments from Last Meeting and Actions Taken to Address these Comments
Dr. Anderson mentioned that our project should start off revolving heavily around researching the right material. He says that there may or may not be a solution to our problems, but researching either a new bag material or placing an additive chemical within the bag itself may work. We have spent the majority of our time so far research different aspects of the coupling bag with possible solutions in our Individual Component Analysis.
Risks and Areas of Concern
Sewing different sublayers for the new bag
How much static new bag material will introduce (this affects noise performance of sensors)
How to check for better water retention
Resources or Information Required but not Available
If there has been hard data in choice of liquid or bag material from the company sponsor
Schedule
Order the materials for the bag and a sewing machine
Update Gantt chart.
Budget (list amount spent and amount remaining)
Currently, we have only used approximately $25 of our funds for research purpose over the course of Winter Break. These materials were purchased by Christian, and will be reimbursed at a later time. Our remaining funds are now currently at around $975.
Progress on Report and Webpage
Updated the Gantt Chart
Uploaded Weekly Progress Report